Metabolic and hematological effects of starvation in the European eel, Anguilla anguilla L.—I. Carbohydrate, lipid, protein and inorganic ion metabolism

Abstract

1. The effects of starvation on different metabolities in blood, liver and muscle and the level of cortisol and some inorganic ions in plasma were studied in eels, Anguilla anguilla L., after 11, 47, 96 and 164 days. 2. During the first 96 days the eels apparently used mainly liver and muscle triglycerides and this utilization was accompanied by an increase in water content. 3. Between 47 and 96 days the levels of blood glucose and muscle glycogen increased followed by a decrease. 4. Between 96 and 164 days there was a marked decrease in liver glycogen and plasma protein while the triglyceride and water content of liver and muscle was unaffected. 5. The alterations in cholesterol and phospholipids and the possible role of LCAT (lecithin:cholesterol acyltransferase) in the regulation of these parameters is discussed. 6. During the entire starvation period the level of inorganic phosphate in blood plasma decreased and the level of blood lactate, plasma sodium and plasma cortisol increased. 7. The plasma chloride initially decreased followed by an increase after 96 days. These alterations in plasma chloride are discussed in relation to hematological studies and the level of plasma protein.